Blues On The Radio Moves Home! 31/7/16
After nearly three years broadcasting with Croydon Radio, Richard Dunning has decided the time was right to make some changes and spread his wings. From two hours every fortnight there'll now be a new show coming to you every week for an hour! And Richard is delighted to announce that he's teamed up with 'Blues @ Rock-Radio' in the UK and 'MDORadio Blues' in the USA to bring you the best shows he can! Starting on Sunday 7th August you'll be able to catch Blues On The Radio on Sundays at 5pm here, Thursday - Noon EST (5pm UK) here, Thursday - 5pm EST (10pm UK) here and Friday - 2 am here. And the show will also be available on Mixcloud for your listening pleasure!
Going Wilde In The Country! 31/7/16
"Brighton native Will Wilde picked up his first harmonica at the age of 16 and is weaned on the likes of Muddy Waters, Sonny Boy Williamson and Buddy Guy, Wilde grew up steeped in traditional Chicago Blues, yet his focus as an artist remains resolutely on the future. What I liked about Wilde was the fact that he fuses his obvious passion for Blues with his love of Rock. He takes what's authentic and powerful about the music he grew up loving and introduces the raw energy of bands such as Led Zeppelin, Free and Deep Purple without losing the heart and conviction of the Blues. I felt there was a bit of Canned Heat in there as well so I was particularly overjoyed when he did an excellent job covering ‘On The Road Again’ with his band which included Victoria Smith, who is one of the UK's top female bassists.. Another artist I need to keep an eye on..."
Make sure you read the whole of Wrinkly The Silver's Ramblin' Man Sunday review here plus check out today's Vid Of The Day.
Marshman Serves It Up 31/7/16
This week's Blues On The Marsh Track Of The Day features tracks from JJ Cale, Dennis Gruenling and Raveneye. Make sure you tune into The Marshman next Friday at 7pm here as the show will be blessed with the presence of Yoka Qureshi-Kuiper and Big Ray Qureshi (pictured) live in the Channel Radio studio!
Ramblin' Man Fair Review - Sunday 30/7/16
"So with the sun beginning to set and the need for more alcohol, the WRC group decision was made to trek up to the Prog Stage area for the final time and from the safety of the Beer Tent observe the first part of prog veterans Procul Harum's headline set.. All the trademark features you would expect from Procol are present: the double keyboards with the delicious interplay between hammond organ and piano, the steady authoritative bass lines, the majestic tunes and, of course, Gary Brooker’s commanding vocals. If some rock vocalists make life hard for themselves by adopting a vocal delivery in their early 20s that gets more and more difficult to pull off as they hit their 70s, then Gary Brooker chose wisely. Brooker’s cool and melancholic vocals are as strong tonight as they were in 1967, when the band first hit the charts with 'A Whiter Shade of Pale'."
With two audio interviews still to come - read the rest of Wrinkly The Silver's amazing Sunday review from Ramblin Man' here.
Chris Antonik Interview 30/7/16
Recorded on a beautiful Summer's evening setting of The Bulls Head by the Thames in Barnes, our July Wrinklycast interview (and today's Track Of The Day) welcomed Toronto based Blues guitarist, singer and songwriter Chris Antonik to London twelve days ago. Halfway through his debut UK tour, an intimate setting contrasted with Chris's appearance at The Upton Blues Festival the previous weekend. A rising star of the vibrant Canadian Blues scene, listen to amongst other things, Chris discuss the financial reality of touring as an independent artist, his influences of Dylan, Cale and compatriot Cohen, and his excitement and the ambition behind his new album due out in 2017.
Bob Flying Solo Tonight! 30/7/16
No Jules tonight on the 2015 WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge show here at 8pm - although the good news is that Bob will be there as usual playing some great music. This week's playlist includes Tesla, Albany Down, Thunder (pictured), Broken Witt Rebels, Stevie Nimmo, Blacktop Mojo and King King! And don't forget that if you are a Rock or Blues band you're always welcome to contact the guys to get some radio play!
Hard Love 29/7/16
NEEDTOBREATHE (Vid Of The Day) are celebrating their highest charting album ever with the release of their sixth studio record 'Hard Love', out now through Atlantic Records. We first saw them supporting Springsteen at Hard Rock Calling in 2012 and the album has topped the iTunes Album Chart and has entered the Soundscan/Billboard ‘Top Current Albums’ chart at No.1. The Grammy-nominated rock band’s highly anticipated album also topped Billboard’s ‘Top Albums’, ‘Top Current Rock Albums’, ‘Current Alternative Albums’, ‘Current Digital Albums’, and ‘Overall Digital Albums’ charts, and entered the Billboard 200 at No.2. 'Hard Love' has surpassed the success of the South-Carolina quartet’s 'Rivers In The Wasteland' of 2014, which charted at No.3 in the Billboard Hot 200 and spawned the Grammy-nominated single ‘Multiplied’.
Blues Club Back On A Friday! 29/7/16
The Blues Club Podcast this week has two hours of non-stop Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat featuring Blues, Rock, Swing, R&B/Soul, Acoustic, Jazz, UK IBBA Presenters' Picks, New Releases and Classic Tracks. Today's Track Of The Day includes music from Sari Schorr, Albert Castiglia Band, Beki Brindle Scala, Laurence Jones, Malaya Blue, Paul Lamb, Rebecca Downes, Chris Antonik (pictured), Corey Dennison Band, Joyann Parker & Sweet Tea, David Vest, Miss Tess, Kenny "Blues Boss" Wayne, Stevie Nimmo, Bahama Soul Club, Mark Harrison, Blacktop Deluxe, Philipp Fankhauser & Margie Evans, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Johnny Rawls, Paul DesLauriers Band, Amanda St John, Club Des Belugas, Rhythm Zoo, Tape Five, Mick Kolassa, Si Cranstoun, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.
Ramblin' Man Fair To Return In 2017 29/7/16
With a review of last Sunday's proceedings to come from Wrinkly The Silver tomorrow plus two audio interviews from Inglorious and Illustr8tors (pictured) to complete our Ramblin' Man coverage - we're delighted to confirm that the festival in Mote Park, Maidstone, is returning next year over the weekend of 29th/30th July. For more information go here - but in the meantime check out our Saturday review here plus pics from Saturday here and Sunday here.
Ramblin' Man Fair Review - Saturday 28/7/16
"6pm was time for the Zombies, a band originally formed, as they kept reminding us, over 50 years ago. This puts the members well into their 70’s, though none of them actually mentioned that! Only two of the original Zombies remain, but they are the key two: Colin Blunstone (lead vocals) and Rod Argent (keyboard and vocals). Apart from the obligatory couple of songs from their latest album, the set consisted of well-known songs not only from the Zombie’s history but also from the solo spells of Colin (‘I Don’t Believe In Miracles’) and Rod (‘Hold Your Head Up’). At 71 Colin’s voice is inevitably past its best and occasionally faded, but it mattered not - the songs were so well known the singing crowd was often drowning out his vocals anyway. In any case, Rod’s keyboard playing, always critical to the Zombies’ success, has hardly faltered; it was particularly impressive on ‘Time of the Season’. Of all the bands playing on Saturday, I probably enjoyed the Zombies’ set most, possibly because I knew virtually all the songs - but that’s just giving my age away!!"
Read the rest of Big Ian's excellent Ramblin' Man Fair review here from Saturday plus check out his own Vid Of The Day!
Ramblin Man' Fair - RockRpix Photo Gallery 28/7/16
Not only have we added some new pics to our Ramblin' Man Photo Galleries for Saturday here and Sunday here - but Mr. RockRpix himself John Bull is currently putting together his own personal gallery here which currently features The Cadillac Three, Thunder, Airbourne (pictured), Thin Lizzy, Inglorious, The Dead Daisies, Purson and Europe. Watch out for more bands to be added!
Celebrating 40 Years Of Stony Plain Records 28/7/16
This week's Black On Blues Track Of The Day features the album ’40 years of Stony Plain’ - celebrating 40 years of the Canadian independent record label. Today's playlist includes Eric Bibb, Joe Louis Walker, Ronnie Earl & The Broadcasters, Monkey Junk, Billy Boy Arnold, Rory Block, Big Dave McLean, Ruthie Foster, Sonny Rhodes, Amos Garrett, King Biscuit Boy and Walter Shakey Horton.
Ramblin' Man Photo Gallery - Sunday 27/7/16
As we continue to reflect on an awesome weekend at Ramblin' Man Fair at beautiful Mote Park in Maidstone - we now have our first salvo of pics from Sunday in our Photo Gallery here. Amongst WRC friends we bumped into over a memorable weekend were Replicants guitarist Steve Hesmondhalgh, Leo's Red Lion Mein Host Terry Lee, Geoff Carne of The Hatz, ex-Bad Company guitarist Dave 'Bucket' Colwell and MJC Boss Nicola Bowden. It was also good to hear from WRC member Rob "Did you catch Pat McManus in the Blues tent? What a gem! To my shame I have never heard this man play before yesterday. As the man said "I was born between Rory Gallagher and Gary Moore... so I was ****ed!" Wasted at the early performance, could have closed the main stage in my opinion. Great festival and the sun smiled!" We couldn't agree more Rob!
ROTR Show Their Mojo! 27/7/16
Given the WRC were at Ramblin' Man on Saturday, unfortunately we missed the 2015 WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge show hence it is today's Track Of The Day! The week before, Bob & Jules show brought to our attention the awesome Blacktop Mojo (today's Vid Of The Day) and their line up this week includes Bad Company, Stone Broken, The Broken Ravens, Sons Of Texas, Young Guns, Chase The Ace, We Are Harlot, Joe Bonamassa (pictured), Disciples of Babylon, Avenged Sevenfold and more!
Video Vault Updated 27/7/16
We thought it was about time that we partly updated our Video Vault here - fed from our Live WRC Gig Youtube channel here. Anyway, the latest update includes Wolfmother, Jeff Lynne's ELO, Big Boy Bloater & The Limits, Hillbilly Moon Explosion, JOANovARC, The Barnstormers, AC/DC and Bruce Springsteen (pictured)! Enjoy!
Ramblin' Man Photo Gallery - Saturday 26/7/16
A state of deflation has hit Wrinkly Towers after an awesome weekend at Ramblin' Man Fair from the beginning to the end at beautiful Mote Park in Maidstone. With a tear in our eye - today we look back on Saturday's proceedings - with an opening salvo of photos here. Watch out for Sunday pics coming tomorrow plus full reviews and a couple of interviews from a magical weekend.
King King Live CD/DVD September 2016 26/7/16
Unfortunately some us left it too late to get into to the Blues tent to see King King on Sunday - luckily enough for us, WRC member Steve Borkowski was down the front to shoot today's Vid Of The Day. Their last album 'Reaching For the Light' was selected in the Top 50 Albums of the year in both Classic Rock magazine and its sister publication The Blues Magazine. They continue to go from strength to strength - they toured with Thunder in February and headlined in May with support from the amazing Dan Patlansky. And on 30th September the band will release their first live CD/DVD!
Delicious Blues On The Marsh! 26/7/16
Lined up for your delectation on today's Blues On The Marsh Track Of The Day are the 4 IBBA Picks of the Month, Amanda St. John, Philip Fankhauser and Margie Evans, Corey Dennison Band and Rhythm Zoo along with new stuff from Blues Boy Willie, Cheese Finger Brown, Guy Verlinde, Half Deaf Clatch, Jeff Beck, John Verity (pictured), Mike Sponza, Miranda Louise, The Lucky Losers, Walter Trout, Wicked Grin and a world exclusive from The Marshman's great friends (and LastMinuteBandz very own) The Bad Pennies with their debut EP!!
Ramblin' Man Fair - Sunday 25/7/16
"On arrival late Sunday morning we immediately made a beeline for the first act of the 2nd day which were UK hard rock/ Southern metal band Wicked Stone (Vid Of The Day) on the 4th Stage. Seemed a good place to start. Then we hotfooted (or walked in my case !!) off to the Main Stage to catch some heavy blues rock and roll courtesy of The Graveltones. This was followed by a trip to see some American rock on the Blues Stage with WRC favourites SIMO... Then another walk ensued to the Main Stage to catch NI rockers The Answer who WTS remembers seeing supporting AC/DC on their Black Ice Tour way back in 2009 !. Then it was back to the Blues Stage to see critically acclaimed Somerset rockers Tax The Heat who WTS has heard a lot about !! Taking advantage of a 15 minute programming gap, we made it back to the Main Stage to catch Aussie hard rockers Airbourne followed in turn by old favourites and comeback merchants Thunder. Had to make sure we were in position to see the start of veteran prog rockers Procol Harum who were headlining the Prog Stage and then had to reluctantly drag ourselves away to finish the day at the Main Stage seeing the eagerly anticipated headliners Blackstone Cherry who were top of WTS's list to see...."
With Wrinkly The Silver's full Sunday review still to come plus pics from John Bull - also check out today's Ramblin' Man Track Of The Day!
Ramblin' Man Fair - Saturday 24/7/16
"After weeks of escalating anticipation, the 2016 Ramblin’ Man Fair finally got underway shortly after midday on Saturday. For me, the day started at the Rising Stage, where relatively new acts are given the opportunity to showcase their talents. First on were Leogun, whose surging blend of Rock and Blues is already familiar to many WRC members. Next up was the Planet Rock Stage for a dose of hard, driving rock from Inglorious. Then, after a quick visit to the real ale tent, it was on to the Prog in the Park Stage for sets from progressive supergroup Frost, psychedelic rockers Purson and, a little later, the reformed Zombies. Faced with a tricky decision at 7.30pm, I opted for Uriah Heep over Thin Lizzy, though I did manage to catch the latter’s rousing finale. Then, with barely enough time for another visit to the real ale tent, it was back to the Prog in the Park Stage for 60's festival favourites, Family. Finally, it was a rapid return to the Planet Rock stage to catch the final hour of Whitesnake, followed by a reasonably early night - I didn’t want to miss any of Sunday’s equally impressive line-up ….."
With Big Ian's full Saturday review still to come plus pics from John Bull - check out today's Ramblin' Man Vid & Track Of The Day! Day 2 beckons!
Ramblin Man' - It's Here! 23/7/16
Yes the big day has finally arrived! All roads lead to Mote Park, Maidstone, Kent for Ramblin' Man Fair weekend. Watch out for our coverage this weekend on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube and of course - here on our website. As well as enjoying the music and the booze , we have a dedicated team of: Big Ian reviewing Saturday, Wrinkly The Silver reviewing Sunday and of course Mr. Rockrpix John Bull taking some awesome photos all over the weekend. Throw in a couple of planned back stage interviews with Inglorious (Vid Of The Day) and Illustr8ors - and it's going to be a rockin' weekend - even with good weather forecast!
Blues Club Is Back! 23/7/16
A day later than scheduled (sorry Jim) - our latest Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day has another two hours of non-stop 'Best in Blues with More Music and Less Chat' featuring Blues, Rock, R&B/Soul, Acoustic, Jazz, Swing, UK IBBA Presenters' Picks, New Releases and Classic Tracks. Music this week includes Joe Bonamassa, Lisa Mann, Jeff Beck, Little Boys Blue, Dusty Springfield, The Superhuman Band, Beki Brindle Scala, Paul Lamb, TBelly, Vargas Blues Band, Keb' Mo', Buddy Guy, Tommy Castro (pictured), Cherry Poppin' Daddies, The Hitman Blues Band, Guy Verlinde, Amanda St. John, RootBone, Kaz Hawkins Band, Corey Dennison Band, Honey Island Swamp Band, Philipp Fankhauser & Margie Evans, The Jackson Four, Rhythm Zoo, Markey Blue, Travellin Brothers, Ebony Jo-Ann Blackgold Griot, Blues Engine, Chaka Khan, Bridget Kelly Band, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more.
Fibrofest Next Saturday 23/7/16
With all eyes on Ramblin' Man this weekend - don't forget that next Saturday 30th July Raveneye will be headlining a one off charity event in aid of registered charity Fibromyalgia Action UK at Leo's Red Lion, Gravesend at 8pm. Raveneye have had an exciting year having recently played Download after returning from the US supporting The Darkness. The band have also supported Slash on his US and UK tour and are currently working on their debut album. Moritz and Mark Jackson of Medicine Hat will also be appearing with tickets priced £10 available here.
Countdown To Ramblin' Man - It's Tomorrow! 22/7/16
With just one day to go in our Ramblin' Man Fair countdown - hands up who likes the TV show 'Sons Of Anarchy'? Well appearing tomorrow on the Outlaw Country Stage at 7.25pm is Canada's The White Buffalo (aka Jake Smith) - several of his brooding songs having made it onto the soundtrack of the acclaimed US show. Check out today's Vid Of The Day plus a gig review here by our very own 'The Moose' in November 2015.
Outside The Lines 22/7/16
"Focussing understandably on the undoubted strength of both the US and Canadian Blues market, good UK music press coverage in the last couple of years - had forced Antonik's hand to test the muddy waters, and hopefully take advantage of, the growing, receptive UK Blues Rock scene - despite the financial reality of touring as an independent artist. Indeed Blues In Britain's John Mitchell and his wife, who were in the audience, were accommodating Chris on this tour. Delving into 'Roll With It' and 'More To Give' from his debut album for openers, Chris then threw in his first cover of the evening - Charles Segar and Willie Broonzy's standard 'Key To The Highway' followed by the first of his songs from his second album 'Better For You' - 'Come From A Good Place'. 'King Of Infidelity' - again from his debut album - rubber-stamped his blend of innovative, thoughtful songwriting with stunning Blues guitar work - written at the time of Antonik's transformation from a club guitarist to a songwriter - allowing his creative juices to acknowledge the influences of Dylan, Cale and compatriot Cohen."
Check out the rest of Chris Antonik's Bulls Head, Barnes review here plus see our photo gallery here.
BCMA Nominees Announced! 22/7/16
On the subject of Ramblin' Man's Outlaw Country Stage - the nominees for the prestigious British Country Music Awards have been announced. The awards are to be hosted by BBC Radio 2 presenter Baylen Leonard at The Heston Venue, Cranford, Middlesex, over the weekend of 29th & 30th October. Previous winners include The Shires, Brandy Clark, Ward Thomas, Brad Paisley, Luke & Mel, Striking Matches and the weekend opens with a Best of British Showcase featuring Dexeter, The Southern Companion (Track Of The Day), Thorne Hill, Gary Quinn and guest American Beau Fuller, with the ceremony itself featuring performances from Red Sky July, Katy Hurt, Holloway Road and many more!
Countdown To Ramblin' Man - Minus 3 21/7/16
We continue our Ramblin' Man Fair countdown with news that Saturday not only sees Thin Lizzy on the main Planet Rock Stage at 7.30pm but it will also herald the debut of our new Wrinklystock V t-shirt! Taking place at the Mick Jagger Centre, Dartford on Saturday 26th November, headliners Limehouse Lizzy continue to keep the spirit of Lizzy alive, with special guests U2 Tribe. Make sure you order your tickets now priced £22 here in order that you don't miss out! Anyway we turn the clock back to High Voltage 2011 for our Vid Of The Day - and if you look carefully you might spot some WRC members in the crowd!
The Last Of The Pre-Wedding Jockin' 21/7/16
RM is not the only big event taking place this week as last Sunday's Route 66 show was host Rory Auskerry's last before he gets married this weekend. Today's Track Of The Day sees the rockin' jock invent 'Jockémon' for the life of this week's show which is packed with top rockin' tunes and plenty of shout outs and jockin'! The WRC would like to wish Rory and Lizzy all the best on their rockin' jockin' future!
DBS At 'The Wipers' Tomorrow! 21/7/16
In November last year, 2014 WRC Award winners Little Devils decided to re-group. Bassist and main songwriter Graeme Wheatley (pictured at BluesRockfest 2015) continued with guitarist Chris Walker, drummer Dave Powell (Adele, Mumford & Sons etc.) plus young soulful vocalist Muzz - all jumping on board to form Deep Blue Sea! Indeed, you can catch the guys tomorrow night in beautiful East Sussex, at the Ypres Castle Inn in Rye.
Chris Antonik Photo Gallery 20/7/16
A beautiful Summer's evening setting of The Bulls Head by the Thames in Barnes, London, welcomed Toronto based Blues guitarist, singer and songwriter Chris Antonik last Monday night. Halfway through his debut UK tour, an intimate setting contrasted with Chris's appearance at The Upton Blues Festival last weekend, with his band consisting of Ben Fisher (guitar), Mark Wotherspoon (drums) and Guenther Kapelle (bass). With a review and an audio interview to come - check out our Photo Gallery here.
Countdown To Ramblin' Man - Minus 4 20/7/16
Today we turn our Ramblin' Man countdown attentions to the The Blues Stage on Sunday at 2.30pm and in particular WRC favourites SIMO (Vid Of The Day) who we had the pleasure of interviewing at The Barfly, London, in April. Endorsed by Joe Bonamassa no less - we first saw them at their amazing Showcase gig which we reviewed here at the St. Moritz Club last November. We just hope that JD has fully recovered from dislocating his knee on tour in Paris three months ago! Do not miss them!
ROTR Ramble On! 20/7/16
And talking of Ramblin' Man - Bob & Jules threw a few RM bands into the mix on their show on Saturday night including Tax The Heat, The Answer, Black Stone Cherry and Dirty Thrills (pictured). Today's 2015 WRC Award winning Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day also includes Motley Crue, Royal Blood, Blacktop Mojo, Monster Truck, The Trews, Winchester Rebels, Jack Blades, Silence Lost and Radio Moscow, Mississippi MacDonald1, The Brew, and loads more
Maple Leaf Blues! 19/7/16
Halfway through his debut UK tour - we were at The Bulls Head in Barnes, London, last night to catch Toronto based Blues guitarist, singer and songwriter Chris Antonik. Following his self-titled debut album, he was nominated for Best New Artist in 2011 at Canada's Maple Blues Awards and in 2013, his critically acclaimed second album 'Better For You' reached number 1 in the Canadian charts. Anyway, on a beautiful Summer's evening, by the Thames, Antonik delved into his back catalogue - plus material from his forthcoming new album - in a stand-out set. Check out today's Vid Of The Day - plus watch out for further pics, a review and an interview (in that order) over the coming days!
Countdown To Ramblin' Man - Minus 5 19/7/16
Further to the news of the Ramblin' Man App - with all the stage timings - a healthy WRC contingent are already working on their itineraries for this weekend at Mote Park, Maidstone. Anyway - how's this for starters for Saturday: 12.45 Leogun, 1.15 Inglorious, 2.15 Frost, 3.15 Purson, 4.45 Ginger Wildheart (pictured), 6 Zombies v Europe, 7.30 Thin Lizzy, 9 Family v Whitesnake? Please get in touch below with your own personal itineraries!
Goodie Goodie Yum Yum! 19/7/16
Our Blues On The Marsh Track Of The Day returns with several goodies lined up for you! The Marshman includes
tracks from Dave May Band, Eddie Turner, EC, JLH, John Primer, Jeremiah Johnson Band, Lisa Mann, Mavis Staples, Miranda Louis, Setting Sons (Paul Bridgewater), Six Shot Revival, Preacher Boy, Mississippi MacDonald and The Cottonmouth Kings, MW, Kjell Gustavsson Rhythm and Blues Band, plus a look back at Kev's four year-long distance relationship with one of his fave lady singers - Regina Bonelli!
Antonik Tour Comes To A Head! 18/7/16
All road's lead to The Bulls Head, Barnes in London tonight at 9pm - part of Chris Antonik's debut UK tour, the award-nominated Bluesman being a rising star of the Canadian Blues scene. Performing songs from his respected back catalogue as well as songs from his forthcoming new album, due for release in 2017 - Antonik blends innovative, thoughtful songwriting with stunning Blues guitar work. Watch out for a vid, pics, a review and an interview (in that order) over the coming days!
Countdown To Ramblin' Man - Minus 6 18/7/16
With now just 6 days to Ramblin' Man Fair at Mote Park, Maidstone over the coming weekend 23rd/24th July - we turn our attention to the 'Rising Stage' and WRC favourites Leogun who kick off proceedings on Saturday at 12.45pm. Was it really three years ago that we stumbled across these guys at the Danson Festival in Kent (see our Vid Of The Day)? As they say the rest is history as we last saw them supporting the mighty Lynyrd Skynyrd at The Hammersmith Apollo in April last year
The Sunday Blues (On Monday) 18/7/16
Today's Black On Blues Track Of The Day is another popular Blues women special including Sunday Wilde, Val Starr And The Blue Rockets, Debbie Bond, Funkyjenn, Fran McGillvray & Mike Burke (pictured) and Hurricane Ruth.
Inaugural HRH Doom vs HRH Stoner! 17/7/16
With just over 11 weeks to go, Liverpool Doom metallers Conan (Vid Of The Day) have confirmed their place in amongst an already exciting Doom n' Stoner celebration! HRH DVS is a two day, two arena event which takes place at The O2 Academy, Sheffield, over the weekend of 1st & 2nd October. Other home-grown bands to confirm include Vodun, Poseidon, Dusteroid and Sheffield Stoners, Regulus. The inaugural HRH DVS has been sold out since March, however HRH have now decided to open up the Academy 3 for a special unplugged arena, creating a further 100 tickets which were released on Thursday. To reserve one of these last few precious tickets, either book on-line here or ring Harri on 0203 287 4994.
Fight For Your Right (To Party)! 17/7/16
Last Sunday's Route 66 Radio Show featured music from Damon Johnson and Blues Engine plus tracks from David Lee Roth, Chris Rea, Queen, 68-75 and Thunder (pictured). In light of the tumultuous week in UK politics, today's Track Of The Day also gives some tips on how to 'unite a party'. There's also some Andy Murray #Wimbledon banter too! Don't forget to join host Rory Auskerry again tonight here at 6pm.
Greenwich Music Time Bonus! 17/7/16
It's always good to be included in a tweet from the Fran McGillivray Band - who are playing The Pelton Arms in Greenwich at 6pm tonight! Fran & Mike started playing Folk, Roots and Blues in the 1970’s and their trio will include a good balance of original songs from the band’s latest album 'Some Luck' plus their varying musical influences will also cater to many a different music lover's taste!
Normal Service Resumes Tomorrow! 16/7/16
The Blues Club Podcast is our Track Of The Day on a Saturday for a change - but rest assured normal service returns tomorrow following our hols! Music featured this week includes Jeff Beck (oictured), The Hitman Blues Band, Paul Lamb, ANA Popovic, Laurence Jones, Muddy Waters, Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats, Stevie Nimmo, Jack J Hutchinson, The Jive Aces, Rhythm Zoo, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Kenny "Blues Boss" Wayne, Jerimiah Marques, Howlin' Wolf, Keb' Mo', Dave May Band, Sunday Wilde, Mississippi MacDonald, Shaun Murphy, Amanda St. John, Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes, T-Bone Walker, Eric Clapton, Imelda May, Philipp Fankhauser & Margie Evans, Blues Engine, Paul Rodgers, Corey Dennison Band, The Mojo Preachers, The Jackson Four, Guy Verlinde and more!
Tax The Heat Tonite! 15/7/16
With just 8 days now to Ramblin' Man at Mote Park, Maidstone over the weekend 23rd/24th July - Sunday's Blues Stage performers (on at 4.45pm) Tax The Heat (today's Vid Of The Day) are tonight at the second of two 'Road to Ramblin' Man' FREE gigs at Big Reds on Holloway Road, London! See you there!Add News Story here
The Paine - Oh The Paine! 14/7/16
Host Richard Dunning was joined in his Croydon Radio studio on Tuesday by Sam Paine ahead of his Trio's showcase gig at The Tuesday Night Music Club in Hooley. Therefore today's Blues On The Radio Track Of The Day sees Sam choosing some of his favourite tracks and giving Rich the run down on the plans for a new album. As usual - there's also a batch of new releases, the IBBA albums of the month and all the news!
Gremlins Part Deux!! 12 & 13/7/16
It might have been a result of the football on Sunday, but the Parisian internet gremlins we encountered on Monday have been overcome! Anyway our Rock On The Ridge Track Of The Day includes Disciples of Babylon, Scorpion Child (also Vid Of The Day), Stone Machine, Johnny Cage & The Voodoogroove, The Art of Dying, Inglorious, BlackWolf, Dirty Thrills, Federal Charm, The Black Crowes, Crobot, Dorothy, Quinn Sullivan, Derek and the Dominos, Albany Down (pictured) , Indigo Bones, I Kept The Wolves Away, Rival Sons, The Record Company, Desert Dragon, Joe Bonamassa, Alter Bridge and Voodoo Hill! Phew!
Greenwich Music Time! 11/7/16
"GMT, in front of 5,000 people, was the penultimate of his five special concerts - an artist who no doubt epitomises the music business cliche of reinventing yourself given his last three offerings of 'Driving Towards The Daylight', 'Muddy Wolf At Red Rocks', 'Blues Of Desparation' and now his latest salute to British Blues! Not unsurprisingly, JB's setlist was pretty much the same as The Cavern - although he did throw in a penultimate Zep cover 'Black Winter/Django' and of course an encore of 'Sloe Gin' instead of The Beatles 'Taxman' for obvious reasons. Also, in addition to his salute to the British Holy Trinity - BC&P - Bonamassa duly covered some John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers - namely 'Double Crossing Time' and 'Little Girl' but for mine it was so refreshing to hear a couple of Zep classic's that could be considered nowadays as being off the beaten track - such as 'Boogie With Stu' and 'Tea For One/I Can't Quit You Baby'."
Read the rest of AJ's Joe Bonamassa/Joanne Shaw Taylor GMT review here plus check out more of John Bull's amazing pics here
Robben Under The Bridge Tonight! 11/7/16
Despite an expected reduced service this week due to holiday's at Wrinkly Towers - we've still managed to squeeze in another gig tonight! Yes all roads lead to Chelsea's Under The Bridge in London as guitar virtuoso Robben Ford (Vid Of The Day) play songs off of his recent album 'Into The Sun' which includes guest appearances by Blues icon Keb’ Mo’, vocalist ZZ Ward, Warren Haynes (who is headlining Ramblin Man's Blues Stage on Sunday 24th July), Sonny Landreth, Robert Randolph and Tyler Bryant - and shines a bright light on his artful, contemporary songwriting and the stunning playing that’s made him a favorite foil of Miles Davis, Joni Mitchell, George Harrison and other legends.
What’s Cooking In The Blues Kitchen? 11/7/16
On this week's Black On Blues Track Of The Day, host Kevin Black plays some of his favourite new releases including Albert Bashor-Junkin, Walklate and Fuschi, Toronzo Cannon, Al Lerman, Josh Smith, Kyle T Hurley and Kenny Blues Boss Wayne!
Monster Truck Back On Road 10/7/16
The Canadian hard-rockin’ juggernaut Monster Truck, are returning to Europe in September and October as main support across a host of legendary arenas for Nickelback. The tour follows the release of their new album 'Sittin’ Heavy' which has received rave reviews. In true road warrior style they have learnt their chops on tour and have been relentlessly tearing through shows and have already opened for the mighty Guns n' Roses, Slash, Alice in Chains, ZZ Top, Buckcherry, Rival Sons and Vista Chino over the last two years and are ready to show Nickelback fans how hard-rocking they can be! Anyway check out today's Vid Of The Day - which brings back fond memories of this year's Download!
Countdown To Ramblin' Man - Minus 13 10/7/16
The last time the WRC bumped into Procol Harum guitarist Geoff Whitehorn was when he popped down to support The Mentulls gig at Leo's Red Lion in Gravesend in October 2014 (pictured). Well we will be seeing Geoff once again in the Garden of England as Procol Harum (our Track Of The Day) are headlining Sunday's Prog In The Park Stage at the Ramblin' Man Fair weekend at Mote Park, Maidstone on 23rd/24th July!
BluesRockFest Timings Announced! 10/7/16
Not to be outdone by Ramblin' Man's stage timing's announcement - WRC Promotions have announced the running times for BluesRockFest at Leo's Red Lion Gravesend on Saturday 24th September: Born Healer 3pm, Blacktop Deluxe 3.55pm, Catfish 4.50pm, Robin Bibi (Acoustic in Main Bar) 5.40pm, Red Butler 6.25pm, Jack J Hutchinson 7.25pm, The Mentulls 8.25pm, Steve Nimmo Trio 9.30 - 11pm. Tickets are still available for £20 here or WRC members for £15 here.
Countdown To Ramblin' Man - Minus 14 9/7/16
Our countdown to Ramblin' Man Fair weekend at Mote Park, Maidstone on 23rd/24th July continues - with news that if you download the RMF app onto your phone - you will be able to check out the stage timings and work out your itinerary for both days. Already a potential headache is the Saturday night clash between Whitesnake (pictured) on the Main Stage and Family (see today's Vid Of The Day) on the Prog In The Park Stage!
New Age Of Old Ways 9/7/16
South London riff-monsters Stoneghost will be heading out as main support on a nine date UK tour with British Metal beasts Raging Speedhorn which begins in Colchester on Friday 15th July and ends at London's Underworld on Saturday 23rd July. Their latest album 'New Age of Old Ways' was recorded with Russ Russell who has previously worked with Napalm Death, Evile, Dimmu Borgir, Sikth and New Model Army - who helped harness the raw live energy and translate it to record.
ROTR Back With A Bang! 9/7/16
2015 WRC Award winners Bob and Jules have returned from their 'Road Trip' - so the good news is that their Rock On The Ridge show returns tonight here at 8pm!
Bonamassa Salutes British Blues! 8/7/16
Joe Bonamassa’s (pic: John Bull RockRpix) love of the British Blues is at the heart of his musicial inspiration; and, last night at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, London - the penultimate of his five special concerts - he paid the ultimate homage to the British Blues rock guitarists that inspired him – Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page. Watch out for pics plus a review of a memorable evening that also included excellent support from Joanne Shaw Taylor shortly.
Countdown To Ramblin' Man - Minus 15 8/7/16
As we continue our countdown to Ramblin' Man Fair weekend at Mote Park, Maidstone on 23rd/24th July - it's about time we mentioned the Outlaw Country Stage on Saturday and in particular headliners Hayseed Dixie. What better way to chill and relax with a beer at the end of the day than watch and listen to these amusing proponents of the ultimate in cover songs (see today's Vid Of The Day). You will not be disappointed!
Blues Club Open For Business 8/7/16
Today's Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day features mostly New Releases with music from artists such as Keb' Mo', The Hitman Blues Band, Albert Castiglia Band, Joe Bonamassa, Laurence Jones (pictured), Mississippi MacDonald, Stevie Nimmo, Richard Townend & The Mighty Bosscats, Nick Moss Band, Caro Emerald, Amanda St. John, Robin Bibi Band, Corey Dennison Band, The Cadillac Kings, Wily Bo Walker, Philipp Fankhauser & Margie Evans, Bridget Kelly Band, Travellin Brothers, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Markey Blue, Kat Kings, Kelly's Lot, Rhythm Zoo, Honey Island Swamp Band, The Jive Aces, Aaron West & The Custodians, Sammy Eubanks, Jerimiah Marques, The Blue Aces and more.
Mean Time For JB Tonight! 7/7/16
"It was almost irrelevant what material JB chose to play, because the jaws of the punters, most of whom had seen him many times, continued to drop in awe. For the record the set opened with Beck's 'Bolero/Rice Pudding' followed by Clapton’s 'Mainline Florida' and Zeps 'Boogie with Stu' – all three greats covered in the first three songs – nice!! That effectively set the tone as it should – the set did what it said on the tin and the crowd loved it. Highlights for me were 'Spanish Boots' – 'SWALBR' (where JB introduced us to a little beauty of a guitar) – 'Tea for One' which JB covered on his 'You and Me' album and is one I wish he would play on his “normal” tours (any chance JB?) – 'Pretending' and 'Blues of Desperation'. Of course the night wouldn’t be complete without a tribute to the Beatles and 'Taxman' duly achieved that."
Read Wrinkly's take here on Joe Bonamassa's Liverpool Cavern Club gig last week (pictured) and yes - we're off to see him again tonight at Greenwich Music Time! Happy days!
Dust & Bones 7/7/16
Released through the Mascot Label Group on Friday 29th July, Gary Hoey's 20th album 'Dust & Bones' showcases his Fender Stratocaster-driven fury alongside open-D-tuned resonator guitars plugged into half-stack! The massive sonic attack was essential for paying sincere and appropriate homage to some of Hoey’s influences, such as Johnny Winter ('Steamroller'), Robin Trower ('This Time Tomorrow') and Brian Setzer ('Who’s Your Daddy'), as well as a thrill-a-minute mash up of Robert Johnson meets Led Zeppelin ('Boxcar Blues' - our Track Of The Day). There’s also a classic power ballad ('Coming Home') where Lita Ford sings a duet with Hoey.
Countdown To Ramblin' Man - Minus 16 7/7/16
We continue our countdown to Ramblin' Man Fair weekend at Mote Park, Maidstone on 23rd/24th July with Sunday headliners Black Stone Cherry. We first saw BSC supporting Alter Bridge at Wembley Arena in November 2011 (pictured) and they obviously have gone from strength to strength. To coincide with this February's' packed out UK arena tour, BSC unveiled their video for 'In Our Dreams' (today's Vid Of The Day), the first single taken from their fifth studio album, 'Kentucky'.
WRC On Tour 2016 6/7/16
Well the WRC have been there - but now you can literally buy the t-shirt! At this halfway house stage of WRC gigs in 2016 - we pay tribute to David Bowie - plus we list all the bands we have already seen this year and all the bands we are off to see over the remainder of this year. Available in all sizes - you can now buy yours here for a bargain £17 + P&P!
Bad Company! 6/7/16
Still on the subject of our new t-shirt - as well as Bad Company being on the itinerary at the O2 Arena, London in October - we also have Fullhouse in August who feature our mate and ex-Bad Company guitarist Dave 'Bucket' Colwell (pictured right and our Vid Of The Day) at the Half Moon, Putney on Thursday 4th August. On the 40th anniversary of Frankie Miller forming Fullhouse, original guitarist Ray Minnhinnet, has put together a line up to play a set of Frankie's timeless music including Bucket, Terry Slesser (vocals) Clive Edwards (drums) and Dave Boyce (bass)!
Extra Tour Dates Announced For JST 6/7/16
We're off to see Joanne Shaw Taylor support Joe Bonamassa at Greenwich Music Time in London tomorrow night. Following critical acclaim and huge crowds at both The Isle of Wight and Glastonbury Festivals (and an exclusive performance on the BBC), Joanne is now heading over to tour the US before returning to the UK in the autumn and has added some extra dates due to public demand following the release of her fifth studio album ‘Wild’ (see Track Of The Day and is out on Friday 30th September). January 2017 dates include Glasgow, Gateshead, London, Manchester, Sheffield and a homecoming gig in Birmingham. Tickets will go on sale this Friday 8th July at 9am.
Double Celebration! 5/7/16
Was It really two years ago this month since the very first gig at the Tuesday Night Music Club to see if people wanted live music in North Surrey/South London? Apparently the answer was a resounding yes and now they've put on 64 shows! The TNMC actual anniversary is 29th July and running up to that, Katie Bradley and The Chris Corcoran Trio are at the Comrades Club, 194 Brighton Road, Coulsdon, Greater London, CR5 2NF tonight! Get on down and join them as they start their celebrations - oooh and a little birdie tells us that it's ace sound man Simon Taylor's birthday as well - so double celebrations!
Countdown To Ramblin' Man - Minus 18 5/7/16
The last time we saw Europe was at the Arrock Classic Rock Festival in Biddinghuizen in Holland in June 2007 supporting Aerosmith and Scorpions. Often written off as a one hit wonder - these guys rock as testified by their latest album - the brilliant 'War Of Kings'. Do not miss them at Ramblin' Man as we continue with our countdown to RM with today's Vid Of The Day as we turn the clock back to 30th June 2007.
Keeping Up With The Joneses! 5/7/16
This week's Route 66 show includes two new tracks from the latest Laurence Jones (pictured at the 100 Club in June 2014) album which is out in just under three weeks. Today's Track Of The Day also has another new track from Jeff Beck plus Riccardo Grosso, Jimmy Bez Blues Band, Joanne Shaw Taylor, Samantha Fish and R. L. Burnside and classics from Queen, ZZ Top and JJ Cale. Host Rory Auskerry also pays tribute to The Rolling Stones founder Brian Jones who died on 3rd July 1969 and Bon Scott of AC/DC who was born this week in 1946.
Proud Saints & Sinners! 4/7/16
The British Blues Exhibition Live presents Saints and Sinners, a night of music from across Blues history and all the good, bad and surprising that goes with it at The Proud Camden in London on Thursday 15th September at 6pm. With special guest Peter Donegan, son of the Skiffle giant Lonnie Donegan, Blues innovator and humourist one man band Andy Twyman (pictured) the duo Auld Man's Baccie (see our Vid Of The Day), and the Great West Groove, it promises to be a special night. Tickets are £12 on the night, £8 in advance from here - with more surprise attractions to the bill to be announced.
Joe Honoured At The Cavern Club 4/7/16
Was it exactly one week ago that Joe Bonamassa joined a host of named legends as he received his brick in The Cavern ‘Wall of Fame’ ahead of his intimate Cavern gig at Liverpool’s cellar club as a thank you to his British fans for the support they have shown him through his career? With a review waiting in the wings have a look at footage here plus check out some new additions to our Photo Gallery here.
Living The Blues 4/7/16
This week's Black On Blues Track Of The Day is another Blues women special including 55 Rose Street (featuring Heather Gillis), Dena Taylor, Bridget Kelly Band, Christi Anna Perez, Diana Rein, F & G Band Feat Sandra Taylor, Fiona Boyes, Tracy K and Lisa Mann.
Voila VOLA! 3/7/16
A musical journey into the mind in pursuit of happiness, set to a mix of 70’s Progressive Rock, modern day electronica, industrial and metal, topped off with clear, beautiful vocal lines: that's what young Copenhagen quartet VOLA is offering on their debut album 'Inmazes' (today's Track Of The Day), out on Mascot Records on Friday 16th September. Inmazes was mixed by Asger Mygind and mastered by Jens Bogren (Opeth, Katatonia, Soilwork, Amon Amarth, Symphony X, Paradise Lost, Devin Townsend, Fates Warning and Arch Enemy). Before the end of 2015, the band played high-profile gigs like Euroblast in Germany and ProgPower Europe in the Netherlands - and after its official release - VOLA will indeed tour the UK and mainland Europe.
Countdown To Ramblin' Man - Minus 20 3/7/16
We might have been a bit spaced out - but we're pretty sure that the first and last time we saw Hawkwind was at The Forum in London in December 2001! Anyway we have the chance again to see the spacelords on the Prog In The Park Stage at Ramblin' Man on Sunday 24th July as we continue our RM countdown with our Hawkwind Vid Of The Day!
Proud Rebels! 3/7/16
We first introduced you to Birmingham quartet Broken Witt Rebels in September 2015. Since then the band have gone from strength to strength combining the power and intensity of Indie Rock with the finesse and delicacy of soulful Blues. Heralded as one of the most exciting new live bands in the country, they have just released a new EP Georgia Pine and you have the chance to see them either on Thursday 20th October at the Proud, Camden in London or the following night at Leo's Red Lion, in Gravesend, Kent!
Three Weeks To Ramblin' Man! 2/7/16
Over the weekend of 23rd & 24th July - there is only one place to be! Ramblin’ Man Fair is an annual music festival celebrating Classic and Contemporary Rock, Progressive Rock, Blues and Country. Ramblin’ Man Fair is a Rock festival designed for Rock fans by Rock fans and we will be there! Ramblin’ Man has the perfect location in Mote Park in Maidstone, Kent - close to London surrounded by beautiful English countryside. So what better way to start our countdown to Ramblin' Man with our Airbourne Vid Of The Day - who are appearing on the main stage on Sunday!
Introducing ...... The Black Roses 2/7/16
A new addition to our 'Introducing ...' feature is long overdue - so our thanks to Sam for getting in touch re: The Black Roses. Based just up the road from Ramblin' Man - in Ashford, Kent - the band are a Blues/Rock fusion performing original tracks and covers with a nod to the Blues! Consisting of Matt Sullivan (lead vocals), Jack Kellam (guitar), Keely Timms (bass) and Josh Wadey (drums) - please check out today's Track Of The Day!
JB At Preston Guild Hall Tonight! 2/7/16
Due to a torrential rain forecast - Joe Bonamassa's Hoghton Tower outdoor gig tonight has been moved indoors to the Preston Guild Hall. The venue will be a mixture of standing and unreserved seating and provides the best opportunity for Joe’s fans not to miss his planned visit to Preston. Doors open at 6pm and special guest Joanne Shaw Taylor is on at 6.45 pm with JB (pictured at Liverpool's Cavern Club last Monday) due on stage at
8pm.
Good News Or The Bad News? 1/7/16
First the bad news: yesterday was the cut-off date for purchasing BluesRockFest Earlybird tickets at a bargain £15. However, the good news is that if you become a WRC member here for FREE - you not only get all the associated privileges of being a member - but you can also still buy your BluesRockFest ticket for £15 instead of £20. And the other good news is that WRC Award winners and BluesRockFest's The Mentulls are our Vid Of The Day - as we turn the clock back to BluesFest 2013!
July WRC Bulletin Out Today! 1/7/16
Halfway through the year and still no decent weather! Yes it's the first of July so watch out for today's July WRC e-mail bulletin that's going out - as usual - with all the links you need re: the current goings on at Wrinkly Towers! Whether it's Merchandise, FREE Membership, CD Reviews or our latest Gig Calendar - it's all there. And if you are not currently on our e-mail circulation list then please send us your details in the contact box below!
Please Release Me ... 1/7/16
It's Friday - so it must be our Blues Club Podcast Track Of The Day featuring mainly new releases with music from artists such as B.B. King, Albert Castiglia Band, Mississippi MacDonald, Ana Popovic, Sammy Eubanks, Cherry Poppin' Daddies, Katie Bradley & Matt Long, Martin McNeill, Matty T Wall, Stevie Nimmo, RootBone, Born Healer, Little Boys Blue, Jesse Davey, Curtis Salgado, Lena & The Slide Brothers, Albany Down (pictured), Tullie Brae, Bedwyr Morgan, William Bell, Bahama Soul Club, Royal Southern Brotherhood, Alexis P Suter, Josh Hoyer & Soul Colossal, Jerimiah Marques, Golden State-Lone Star Revue, B. B. & The Blues Shacks and more!